MBZ

Microbial electrolysis cells (MEC) are a promising technology for producing energy from wastewater while simultaneously treating the wastewater. Thus this technology has the potential to produce energy (electricity) and at the same time save significant amounts of energy (required for wastewater treatment). So far, however, the majority of experimental studies on microbial electrolysis cells have only been conducted on a lab scale, i.e. less than 1L reactor volume.

The objective of this research project is the construction and characterization of a technical scale MEC - our Prototype II. This prototype will enable us to do systematic research on the individual components (electrode materials etc.) and technical operating parameters of a MEC on a technical scale. Based on the results of this research work, strategies for an advanced development of these bioelectrochemical systems will be worked out. Obtained findings and research results will also be used to attract industry partners for future research projects in this field.

• On the basis of the existing Prototype I systematic tests will be conducted to determine the influence of process parameters and thus identify potentially limiting factors
• Based on these test results and a survey of former research findings an improved modular research (Prototype II) will be designed and constructed. This prototype will be designed in such a way that a real-life installation in wastewater treatment systems is possible and will simultaneously allow further investigation of operating parameters
• Prototype II will be an improved, real-life modular research reactor, which will be characterized in regard to its electrochemical and technical process parameters during the project work. In addition, the research work will focus on the investigation and optimization of the flow regime (the goal is a complete COD-degradation under continuous flow conditions) and the application of synthetic wastewater and real wastewater.
• For raising public awareness of the potentials of microbial electrolysis cells and bioelectrochemical systems based on the application of MECs and for finding partners for possible future research projects, various activities such as workshops, information events and publications are planned.